Direttore vs. preside
The Italian words 'direttore' and 'preside' both refer to leadership roles in educational settings, but they are used in different contexts and levels of education.
Direttore
'Direttore' is a more general term that can refer to the head of various educational institutions, including language schools, music conservatories, or research institutes.
Il direttore del conservatorio ha annunciato un nuovo programma di studi.
(The director of the conservatory announced a new study program.)
La direttrice della scuola di lingue ha assunto nuovi insegnanti madrelingua.
(The director of the language school hired new native-speaking teachers.)
Preside
'Preside' specifically refers to the principal or headteacher of a middle school or high school in the Italian education system.
Il preside del liceo ha convocato una riunione con i genitori degli studenti.
(The high school principal called a meeting with the students' parents.)
La preside della scuola media ha implementato nuove regole per migliorare la disciplina.
(The middle school principal implemented new rules to improve discipline.)
Summary
While 'direttore' is a broader term used for heads of various educational institutions, 'preside' specifically refers to principals of middle and high schools in Italy. 'Direttore' can be used in contexts like language schools or music conservatories, whereas 'preside' is exclusively used for secondary education administrators.